Christophe Dugarry, a former forward for Barcelona, is of the opinion that Paris Saint-Germain’s (PSG) long-term injury to Neymar Jr. is actually a blessing in disguise. On Wednesday, March 8, Les Parisiens will play Bayern Munich in the UEFA Champions League Round of the 16-second leg. With a 1-0 lead, it will be difficult for them to advance to the quarterfinals.
PSG will be hoping that players like Kylian Mbappe and Lionel Messi are at their best as they try to turn things around in Munich. Neymar, on the other hand, won’t be with them on the trip. Since suffering an ankle injury last month during the team’s 4-3 victory over LOSC Lille in Ligue 1, the superstar from Brazil has been sidelined. He has now been declared ineligible for the remainder of the season.
Dugarry disagrees with the widespread perception that the absence of the forward is a significant setback for the Parisians. The injury, according to the former Barcelona player, gives manager Christophe Galtier the opportunity to play a longer period of time without the 31-year-old.
On the French radio station RMC, Dugarry said, “I am delighted for PSG that Neymar is injured.” It’s a fantastic opportunity for Christophe Galtier, in my opinion. Because it was the only option, he ought to have been brave enough to kill him at some point.
The following is Dugarry’s assertion that Les Parisiens perform better without Neymar:
“This squad is considerably better balanced with five (defenders) in the back, three midfielders, and Mbappe-Messi upfront; PSG choice recreate a little lower and counter-attack with them,” the team’s coach stated.
“This team cannot maintain control because the front three do not defend when the ball is lost, putting them in danger. They give away far too many opportunities.”
The Frenchman went on to say that he doesn’t want to see the former Santos FC star play for the Parc des Princes team again:
“I can no longer see him. I can no longer do it. With his dribbling and attitude, I find him unbearable. I no longer want to see him on the field. He wears me down.”
How has Neymar fared this season for PSG?
In spite of the analysis evened out against him, Neymar was in fine structure for PSG before his physical issue. In 29 games played for the club in various competitions, he has scored 18 times and contributed 17 assists.
Without the Brazilian, Galtier and co. may not be able to turn things around against Bayern. They are in good shape heading into the game, having won their last three matches.